2010 GEP entry as an Arts grad & A-levels

[gep2010]

Hi, found this forum, which looks rather helpful! whilst googling and was wondering whether anyone could enlighten me on the GEP MBBS course.

I'm thinking of a big career change, especially subject wise so it's all a little daunting at the moment.

As I understand it, only 4 unis take on Arts grads and I'm looking at Southampton in particular as would mean I could commute from home (just do not have the money to rent somewhere, live AND do the 4 year course). I'm really not keen on taking out a loan of any means so first question is - would it be sensible to keep costs to an absolute minimum (bar transport, small amount of rent and food costs) and commute in every day? I'm aware of the 9am starts and that wouldn't bother me but would commuting have any issues that I've not that about in the later years ie: clinical rounds or something?

Secondly - A level results. Southampton ask for A-level Chem or AS in Chem and Biology. I've got AS Chem and the full A-level in Physics. Am looking at taking the Biology AS during my year off and have that as pending on the UCAS form.

What I really want to know is although Soton say "just A-level passes" how much do grades really come into the application procedure, given they don't appear to interview? As although I have the A-levels, my Chem AS is at a D grade and Physics is at an E (B at AS though). I loathed sixth form and didn't do that much work, hence my grades *oh the shame* On top of that I'd be applying with a 2:1 for my BA and an MA (not sure on results we don't even get told how we're doing during the year and full results arn't until November).

I know they take on Arts grads but are they looking at those who still have straight As at A-level in say two of the Sciences?

Also for any Arts graduates already doing the GEP course, has the first year been full on Science and Chemistry? Or has it been more learning the structure of the body from the obvious to the minute detail?

Any help would be much appreciated

[louise colette]

If it's Soton specific advice you're after, you're probably more likely to find people in the know if you post in the Soton section.

Or, preferably, call their admissions dept and get some proper advice! Good luck; their course is notoriously difficult to get onto. Or at least they didn't want me...

[gep2010]

If it's Soton specific advice you're after, you're probably more likely to find people in the know if you post in the Soton section.

Or, preferably, call their admissions dept and get some proper advice! Good luck; their course is notoriously difficult to get onto. Or at least they didn't want me...

Will do, just posted in the first suitable forum that I saw - I'll definitely try in there now - thanks.

I've heard that the Soton GEP is tough to get into, doesn't bode well does it?